At the Toronto International Film Festival, Sydney Sweeney delivered a career-defining performance in Christy, David Michôd’s biopic of women’s boxing champion Christy Martin. The film not only recounts Martin’s rise in the ring but also explores her harrowing marriage to abusive trainer James Martin (Ben Foster), a dynamic that gives the story its emotional punch.
Sweeney’s Transformative Role
Sweeney trained for months to embody Christy’s physicality, working with boxing coaches, nutritionists, and trainers to build a convincing fighter’s body. Her transformation — bruised, rugged, and far from her glamorous image — stunned audiences. At TIFF, she and the real Christy Martin received a standing ovation, with applause breaking out during the film’s boxing matches and audible gasps during the brutal domestic violence sequences.
This role represents one of Sweeney’s most substantial dramatic showcases to date, solidifying her as a serious Best Actress contender. Much like Hilary Swank in Million Dollar Baby, Sweeney’s mix of grit and vulnerability could propel her into the awards conversation.
Ben Foster’s Dark Transformation
Foster once again disappears into his role, adding weight and altering his appearance to play James Martin. His performance as Christy’s controlling, violent husband drew comparisons to Bob Fosse’s Star 80. While Foster shares significant screen time with Sweeney, framing his work as Best Supporting Actor could give him a stronger awards-season path.
Supporting Standouts
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Merritt Wever shines in a sharp turn as Christy’s cold, unsympathetic mother — a role that drew strong reactions from the premiere crowd. Already beloved in the industry, Wever could translate her limited but impactful role into a Supporting Actress nomination.
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Katy O’Brien also makes an impression as Lisa Holewyne, Christy’s rival-turned-partner. Following her breakout in Love Lies Bleeding, this role reaffirms her rising star power and athletic authenticity.
Oscar Prospects
While Christy may struggle to break into Best Picture or Best Director categories due to divided critical reception over its tonal balance, its acting showcases are undeniable. Sweeney, Foster, and Wever, in particular, have strong chances of becoming awards-season regulars.
The TIFF premiere positioned Christy as a contender to watch, especially with Black Bear securing a November 7, 2025 release date — perfect timing for the Oscar race.
